Steel pipe is manufactured using a few different processes. These processes differ based primarily on the type of steel pipe and its intended uses. Below you’ll find some information about the initial stages of pipe production as well as the individual manufacturing processes for specific kinds of steel pipe.
For many types of steel pipes, the manufacturing process begins by melting iron ore and coke (a hard, porous, gray fuel that has a high carbon content). After the melting stage, the ore and coke are blasted using oxygen. This removes carbon. The product of the aforementioned processes is poured into molds, creating raw steel ingots. These ingots are rolled into blooms that become either the slabs used to create welded pipes or the billets used to create seamless pipes.
As mentioned, the production method of steel pipes differs based on their type. Below you’ll find information about the unique manufacturing methods of popular types.
During the manufacturing process for seamless steel pipes, a billet is heated and then molded into the shape of a cylinder. The cylinder, also called a round, is heated further in a furnace and then rolled. During the heating and rolling, a hole forms in the center of the cylinder, and a bullet-shaped piercer is pushed through the center. After this, the steel is rolled and stretched into the desired dimensions and lengths over the bullet-shaped piercer.
A large diameter seamless steel pipe goes through a mandrel mill process. After the piercer is pushed through, the shell of the pipe is rolled through a mandrel mill. This mandrel mill has mandrel bars inside of it. The end result of the mandrel mill process is a pipe with more controlled wall thickness and outside diameter.
Steel slabs are heated and hot rolled into skelp, coiled and elongated steel ribbon, to create a welded steel pipe. Then, skelp is cut into a flat sheet of a pre-determined length. A rolling machine processes the flat sheet, forming it into a cylinder shape. This is the basic process for basic welded steel pipes. The manufacturing process for welded steel pipes differs slightly based on the type of welded steel pipe. There are three common types of welded steel pipe with different manufacturing processes: Electric-Resistance Welded Pipe, Longitudinal Welded Pipe, and Spiral Welded Pipe.
This type of welded pipe is manufactured using a process of cold-forming a steel sheet into a cylinder shape. Electrical current is passed through the edges of the sheet so that it reaches the necessary temperature for its edges to join and bond. The seam on ERW pipe is almost undetectable, and this type of pipe is quite strong.
This type of welded pipe is created by cold-forming a heavy carbon steel plate. The LSAW pipe manufacturing process results in a straight seam that spans the entire length of a pipe on the outside.
This type of pipe is the result of winding a steel plate or HR coil into the shape of a spiral. Spiral welded pipe is easy and affordable to produce and results in a sizeable amount of pipe thickness.
All types of steel pipe are subject to quality control inspections after their production. They may also be modified according to a customer’s requirements for a particular project.
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In Oklahoma, there’s a bustling industry that turns steel into pipes – a process that’s as fascinating as it is important. These steel pipes are everywhere, from the plumbing in your house to the vast network of oil and gas pipelines. They are essential, yet often overlooked, parts of our infrastructure. Here’s how an industrial piping company in Oklahoma takes simple materials and turns them into these vital components.
Steel pipes are strong and versatile, making them a staple in many industries. They run beneath our streets and form the backbone of large factories. Here’s where you’ll find them:
Moving Liquids and Gases: They’re key in moving water, oil and gas safely.
Building Strong Structures: Used in constructing buildings and bridges.
In Your Car: Parts of your vehicle are made with steel pipes.
Keeping Utilities Running: These pipes help deliver water and gas to homes and businesses.
Lasts Longer: Steel pipes are more durable than other materials.
Stands Up to Corrosion: They can handle tough environments better.
Handles Pressure Well: Ideal for high-pressure uses.
Environmentally Friendly: Steel pipes can be recycled.
The journey of a steel pipe starts with choosing the right materials. The quality of steel and other ingredients shapes the pipe’s final features, like how flexible it is or how well it resists rust.
An industrial piping company in Oklahoma looks at what the pipe will be used for to decide on materials. For instance, pipes for gas lines need to resist rust, while those for buildings need to be extra strong.
The selection of raw materials is crucial in the initial stages of crafting a steel pipe. Engineers carefully choose the type and quality of steel, considering factors such as strength, flexibility and corrosion resistance. Alloying elements, like chromium or nickel, may be added to enhance specific properties. Additionally, the manufacturing process involves precise control over the composition, ensuring the end product meets the desired specifications. The journey from raw materials to the final steel pipe involves a meticulous balance to achieve optimal performance and durability.
Everything begins with getting the steel ready. This steel is usually in big blocks or rolls and gets checked over before moving on.
Then, the steel is rolled and welded into pipe shapes. This step is crucial for making sure the pipes are strong and reliable.
After the pipes are shaped, they get cut to size, threaded or coated. This makes sure they’re just right for their specific use.
New techniques, like Electric Resistance Welding (ERW) and Submerged Arc Welding (SAW), have made pipe making better. These methods make the steel pipe manufacturing process more precise and efficient.
Thanks to these advanced techniques, the pipes made by an industrial piping company in Oklahoma are stronger, last longer and can handle more challenging tasks.
Quality control is huge in this industry. There are strict checks and standards to make sure every steel pipe is safe and reliable.
The process of making sure steel pipes are up to par includes following international guidelines and doing a lot of testing.
Renowned industrial piping companies use special testing methods to check the pipes without harming them, ensuring they’ll last a long time.
There’s a growing focus on making pipe production more eco-friendly. This includes recycling old pipes and using sustainable practices.
At International Pipe, a leading industrial piping company in Oklahoma, we’re proud of how we make steel pipes. Our dedication to quality, innovation and green practices sets us apart. Every steel pipe we make is built to last and meets the highest standards. If you’re in need of reliable steel pipes, think of us – your expert in the field.